Sick VTF18-3F1412 Photoelectric Proximity Sensor PNP

Industrial sensing with M18 housing

The Sick VTF18-3F1412 is a cylindrical photoelectric proximity sensor that uses background blanking to detect objects at short range. It supplies a PNP light-switching output and runs on 10 V DC to 30 V DC, drawing 30 mA. The radial optical axis and focused infrared LED produce a 3 mm light spot at 50 mm distance. A 270° potentiometer adjusts the sensing range between 3 mm and 90 mm.

Upgrade from basic diffuse sensors

This unit replaces simple diffuse sensors that cannot ignore reflective backgrounds or that lack a defined focus point. The jump is worth it when the application demands reliable detection on shiny or uneven surfaces within 90 mm and a switching frequency of 250 Hz. It also suits installations that need a metal nickel-plated brass housing rated to IP67 and an operating window from –25 °C to +70 °C.

Mounts in standard M18 threads

The sensor threads directly into M18 x 1 cut-outs and needs only a three-wire PVC cable for power and signal. Its 2 m cable with 0.14 mm² conductors frees the installer from buying separate connectors or junction boxes. The compact 60.6 mm body fits tight machine frames, while the 120 g weight adds minimal load to moving brackets or robotic arms.